Another reason to buy a PD150 over a vx-2k

Another reason to buy a PD150 over a vx-2k
by woodenpidgeon on Nov 12, 2003 at 2:12:21 am

I had a wonderful little problem this week where my DSR-1500 malfunctioned and burned up the 1394 ports in two computers- two external DVD drives and my VX-2000.

[don't ask, It was just MAD MOJO]

Anyway-- I call Sony for service-- guessing that my VX2k is covered under a consumer camera flat fee. Well it isn't. But if you have a PD-150 you get service from the professional line which is MUCH faster.

the sony rep. told me that the VX line is considered 'professional' and so no flat-fee consumer repair is availible. Unfortunately they don't find it professional enough to give me good service.

End of story:
Rather than send my por camera to the deathstar-- I went with a local 3rd party.

And added another bullet point to my list of why buying a VX over the PD150 was a mistake.

Re: Another reason to buy a PD150 over a vx-2kby Bill Powers on Nov 12, 2003 at 3:54:31 pm

Hi,

I can't say I disagree with your basic thoughts.

I will disagree with the Sony Rep who said the VX2000 was considered a professional product. The VX series is not and never has been sold through the Sony Business and Professional Products Group. It's a consumer product only. As to a flat rate repair.. I have no idea.

Re: Another reason to buy a PD150 over a vx-2kby Michael Munkittrick on Nov 13, 2003 at 3:49:02 pm

Unfortunately Bill, while Sony views the VX-2000 as a "pro-sumer" camera, it sells it to the professional user under the consumer label so that they can get certain import/export rates. Professional series equipment is subject to higher import taxes and is one of the reasons that it is sold at a higher rate.
No matter how many times you try, the result will be the same with the Sony service center. It's done, literally BY THE BOOK...and there is no room for variation in any given case. I personally feel completely comfortable taking my rig to the local electronics guru to have it repaired. I just specify that I want all original parts...no exceptions.

Re: Another reason to buy a PD150 over a vx-2kby Bill Powers on Nov 13, 2003 at 8:57:19 pm

Hi Michael,

I understand. Selling consumer goods to professional users can have it's advantages and it's disadvantages. This is usually a price vs. support issue. We've been dealing with Sony and other service departments for over 30 years. We like to fix things ourselves when possible. It gives us a little more control over the process. One other thought... Don't just ask for all original replacement parts, get the dead old parts back as well. It keeps folks honest. An good service department won't mind one bit.

Re: Another reason to buy a PD150 over a vx-2kby blast1 on Nov 14, 2003 at 9:46:27 am

Its not that they consider it a pro model, its value is such that you have to submit it for a estimate, their consumer flat rates are scaled to the value of the camcorder, but even with the flat rate if the damage is such that it is excessive they will give a further estimate and apply a service charge for it, the service charge can be applyed to the repair if you go forward, you also have to submit a description of the damages to see if you qualify for the flat rate, its not a cut and dry thing.

Re: Another reason to buy a PD150 over a vx-2kby Felipe Marrou on Nov 17, 2003 at 3:56:57 am

i have been shooting with the vx2000 for years for major networks, discovery, mtv,etc. it works great. we have a travel show shot entirely with that camera. doesn't look as professional as the 150 which i like so it is easier to sneak to places, the vatican, anne's franks house, machu picchu,pompei, etc. the more consumer look the better. just keep it quiet please.